Is there any experience quite like biting into a piece of perfectly fried chicken? Mama’s Chicken Kitchen has mastered the art of serving up the moistest, crunchiest, and most delicious fried chicken around. To borrow from their motto, it is indeed “chicken good enough to cross the road for.”
Mama’s Chicken Kitchen may not look like much from the outside, but its offerings are nothing short of fantastic. Located beyond the tourist traps of downtown Gatlinburg and just five miles from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s worth the trip—especially when you factor in the convenient and abundant free parking.
You order at the counter at Mama’s Chicken Kitchen, and the line can get long, especially during peak season. However, it moves quickly. (Plus, you can use the wait to peruse the extensive menu and make your selections.) There’s seating for indoor and outdoor dining, as well as a takeout option. When your food is ready, it will be brought to you. Menu items are available by the plate or the bucket, so depending on your needs there’s an option to fill them.
The service here is as excellent as the food. Have a question about a menu item or are not sure which to choose? Ask the person at the counter, and they’ll be happy to help.
While the fried chicken may be the headliner, everything at Mama’s Chicken Kitchen is equally outstanding. Indulge in homemade and hand-breaded wings in a variety of sauce flavors, fresh salads loaded with veggies, and extras and sides like French fries, onion straws, mashed potatoes, creamed corn, baked beans, and more.
Dining with little ones? Mama’s kid’s meals—which come with your choice of fries or applesauce, a cookie, and a drink—are sure to satisfy. There’s simply no better or more affordable way to feed your family while vacationing in Gatlinburg than a visit to Mama’s. You won’t find anything fussy or fancy here, but what you will find is really exceptional food.
While we loved everything we tried at Mama’s, a few of our favorite menu items included the following:
The 3-Piece Chicken Meal
This one goes without saying, but take our word for it. This fried chicken is to-die-for, as are the sides. And it’s a great deal, too!
Chicken and Dumplings
This authentic Southern offering will take you to back to your childhood…or to heaven, whichever applies.
The Cheesesteak
A cheesesteak may not be the first thing you think of ordering at a fried chicken joint, but this one will blow your mind.
The Southern Style Hot Dog
Wrapped in bacon and served with chili and cheese, this hot dog creation isn’t for the faint-hearted, but it sure is tasty.
Green Beans
Craving something green? The green beans are as good as the chicken—which is a ringing endorsement.
Banana Pudding
This sweet and creamy concoction is the perfect ending to a perfect meal.
Insider Tip:
Mama’s Chicken Kitchen shares its space with a popular local deli called J.O.E. & Pops. Dining with someone who’s not a fan of fried chicken? There’s plenty for them to choose from that menu.